The Nigerian Army has confirmed the arrest of Adeleye Ayomide, the individual believed to be responsible for the brutal murder of Idowu Christiana, a 300-level undergraduate at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Christiana was abducted by suspected kidnappers along the Ikorodu-Yaba Road in Lagos State on 19 August 2024.

A family source, who wished to remain anonymous, revealed that the abductors initially demanded a ransom of N3 million in exchange for the student’s safe release.

However, after repeated pleas, the abductors agreed to accept N350,000, which was transferred to their account, but they reneged on their promise to free the kidnapped student.

Lt-Col. Olabisi Ayeni, spokesperson for the 81 Division Nigerian Army, confirmed Ayomide’s arrest in a telephone interview, saying, “Yes, I am aware of the situation. We apprehended him, and the 9 Brigade Nigerian Army will be handing him over to the Lagos State Police Command today, so you can liaise with them for further information.”

Ibrahim Adeyemi, President of the Student Union Government at FUNAAB, also confirmed Christiana’s tragic demise, saying, “The union can confirm that she was reportedly killed by her abductor. We will be addressing the matter soon.”

Christiana’s untimely death has sparked widespread outrage, particularly on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), with the hashtag #JusticeForChristiana trending with over 90,000 posts. Users have pointed accusing fingers at Ayomide, demanding justice for Christiana’s heinous murder.

One X user, Tommy (@Tommyjr277), tweeted, “Our friend, Christiana, has been tragically murdered; a Funaabite abducted by this Ayomide, a student of Philosophy in OOU, Ogun State. We demand justice for our friend. The suspect is reportedly being held at 174 Battalion in Ikorodu. We demand justice. He must face the full force of the law.”

Another user, Man of Letters (@Letter_to_Jack), tweeted that Ayomide confessed to Christiana’s father and military operatives that he had killed and buried the victim, according to “detailed reports from trusted sources.”

The Delta State Police Command has achieved a significant milestone in its fight against crime, arresting six suspected kidnappers and recovering over N2.3 million in ransom paid by their victims.

Commissioner of Police, CP Abaniwanda Olufemi, disclosed this while parading 16 suspects for various crimes. “We have achieved significant successes during the period under review, and we plan to increase police visibility and raid black spots and criminal hideouts across the 25 local government areas,” he said.

Olufemi explained that the breakthrough came when operatives from the Ebrumede Division intercepted a tricycle carrying six passengers. “Upon sighting the police, the suspects attempted to escape, but our operatives pursued and arrested them. A search revealed N2,344,000 in ransom money and some suspected stolen phones.”

He added, “Further investigation revealed that the phones belonged to kidnapping victims, and the money was part of the ransom paid for their release.”

The CP also revealed that the anti-kidnapping squad led a sting operation in the Umunede forest area, rescuing two people kidnapped along the Asaba-Benin Expressway. “We acted on credible information regarding the kidnapping. When the kidnappers realised we were closing in, they abandoned the victims and fled.”

Olufemi lamented the prevalence of hard drugs in the state, noting that the command’s Dragon Patrol team intercepted a 39-year-old man, Jammed Abdulahi Shola, driving a green Toyota vehicle. “A search of the vehicle uncovered 320 packs of codeine, 125 sachets of tramadol, and other hard drugs in large quantities.”

• appeals to FG to reduce fuel pump price, provide support to businesses

• urges government to invest in alternative energy sources.

The Ogun State Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (OGUNCCIMA) has expressed deep concern over the recent fuel pump price hike, which has risen to between 850 to 1000 naira per liter.

In a statement signed by OGUNCCIMA President, Lion Niyi Oshiyemi, the chamber warned that the hike will have far-reaching consequences on the economy, businesses, and Nigerians, leading to increased production costs, higher prices of goods and services, and reduced profitability for businesses.

Oshiyemi appealed to the Federal Government to take immediate action to address the adverse effects of the fuel price hike, urging measures to reduce the fuel pump price, provide support to businesses, and invest in alternative energy sources.

He said: “The fuel price hike will lead to job losses, reduced economic activity, and increased poverty levels, disproportionately affecting low-income earners and small business operators”.

“The Federal Government must act now to mitigate the effects of this fuel price hike. We cannot afford to wait and watch as businesses suffer and Nigerians bear the brunt”.

“We urge the government to consider the long-term effects of this hike and take proactive steps to address the root causes. We are ready to engage in constructive dialogue to find lasting solutions,” Oshiyemi added.

In a bold move, Burkina Faso has introduced new biometric passports that notably exclude the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) logo from their covers, further solidifying its decision to withdraw from the regional bloc.

This development follows a military coup that brought the current leadership to power.

At the launch on Tuesday, Security Minister Mahamadou Sana stated, “On this passport, there’s no ECOWAS logo, and no mention of ECOWAS either. Since January, Burkina Faso has decided to withdraw from this body, and this is just a realisation of the action already taken by Burkina Faso.”

The introduction of these new passports reinforces Burkina Faso’s determination to sever ties with the 15-member regional alliance.

ECOWAS has warned that the impending withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali from the bloc would have far-reaching consequences, compromising the freedom of movement and the integrity of the common market that has benefited the 400 million citizens of the 50-year-old regional organisation.

This development comes at a critical juncture, as the three countries grapple with the escalating threat posed by insurgent groups affiliated with al Qaeda and Islamic State.

The move raises concerns about the potential impact on regional stability and cooperation in the face of growing security challenges.

In a surprising turn of events, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ogun State has cleared Wale Adedayo, the former Chairman of Ijebu East Local Government, to contest in the party’s primaries for chairmanship aspirants.

Adedayo’s clearance comes despite his tumultuous past, having been impeached last year over allegations of LG funds hijack by Governor Dapo Abiodun, dumped the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to re-contest the seat.

Adedayo’s impeachment was sparked by his accusations against Governor Dapo Abiodun, claiming the governor had diverted N10.8bn in local government funds.

The state government subsequently dragged Adedayo to court over allegations of false accusations and defamation of character against the governor.

Undeterred by his past challenges, Adedayo has been given a fresh chance by the PDP to re-contest the chairmanship position in Ijebu East Local Government.

The party’s Publicity Secretary, Afolabi Orekoya, confirmed that Adedayo was among hundreds of aspirants screened for eligibility to contest in the Local Government Elections scheduled for November.

Orekoya said, “Hundreds of aspirants from the 236 Wards and 20 Local Governments of Ogun State obtained the party’s nomination forms and were screened for eligibility to contest in the Local Government Elections coming up in November.

“Among the aspirants screened at the Party Secretariat in Abeokuta was the former Chairman of Ijebu East Local Government, Chief Wale Adedayo who is recontesting for the Chairmanship position in Ijebu East Local Government’.

“The party has scheduled Thursday, 5th, and Saturday, 7th September as respective dates for the Councillorship and Chairmanship Primary Elections across the 236 Wards and 20 LGs.

“The members of the party should go out peacefully for the primaries in their various wards to elect the councilors and chairmanship candidates of their choice”.

Recall that Adedayo last year accused Governor Dapo Abiodun of diverting N10.8bn local government fund.

He was later impeached as the LG chairman.

The state government also dragged Adedayo to court over false allegations and defamation of character against Governor Abiodun.

In a bid to break down barriers, the Concerned Progressive Persons with Disabilities group has launched a passionate appeal to Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun to prioritize inclusivity in the upcoming local government elections, Tropic Reporters reports.

As the elections draw near, the group is urging the governor to ensure that individuals with disabilities are given equal opportunities to participate in the political process and occupy elective positions across the state’s 20 local government areas.

In an open letter signed by Kamaldeen Olatunji Lawal, Dr. Michael Ebonhor, and Abiodun Adebesin, the group emphasized the significance of this inclusion, citing the positive impact it would have on the PWDs community in the state.

The letter specifically highlighted a chairmanship aspirant in Odogbolu Local Government, Fasola Olamide, and nine councillorship aspirants in other areas, demanding support and a level playing field without discrimination.

“We, Concerned Progressive Persons with Disabilities, humbly appeal to your esteemed office with hope and anticipation. As we approach the Local Government elections in November, we recognize a remarkable opportunity to promote inclusivity and diversity in leadership. We urge you to seize this moment to make a profound impact on the lives of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Ogun State.

“We recognize a remarkable opportunity to promote inclusivity and diversity in leadership. We urge you to seize this moment to make a profound impact on the lives of Persons with Disabilities in Ogun State”.

“One of our own, a dedicated and experienced administrator with a disability, is aspiring for a chairmanship position in Odogbolu Local Government, where he has served as the outgoing SLG. Additionally, nine PWDs are aspiring for Councillorship positions.

“We implore you to recognize their potential, provide necessary support, and ensure their success. This will be a testament to your administration’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity.

“Unfortunately, PWDs in Ogun State have faced discrimination, inadequate representation in government, and limited opportunities to participate in the democratic process. We have been marginalized and denied the chance to occupy political spaces. However, we trust that your administration will champion our cause and empower us to exhibit our leadership roles.

“By supporting our candidates, you will be fostering a more inclusive and representative government, which will benefit the entire community. You will be writing a new chapter in the history of Ogun State, one that values diversity and promotes equal opportunities”, it added.

• Accuses Labour of Spreading Misinformation

• Minimum Wage Agreement Not Tied to Fuel Price, Says Presidency

The Presidency has refuted claims by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, that President Bola Tinubu reneged on an agreement not to increase the petrol pump price.

Ajaero alleged that labour accepted a lower minimum wage based on this understanding.

However, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Print Media, Abdulaziz Abdulaziz, dismissed Ajaero’s claims as “dirty politics” aimed at manipulating Nigerians’ emotions.

Abdulaziz, who attended the meetings between President Tinubu and labour leaders, stated, “At neither of the meetings was an offer made in exchange of fuel price hike.”

The controversy surrounds the recent petrol price increase from N617 to N897 per litre by the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).

The NLC had demanded a N250,000 minimum wage but accepted N70,000, believing the fuel price would remain unchanged.

Abdulaziz emphasized, “I sat through the two meetings… Ajaero is once again playing his dirty politics with the emotions of Nigerians.”

The Presidency’s response clarifies that no agreement was made regarding fuel prices during the minimum wage discussions.

Tragedy has struck in Emure, Ekiti State, where a young traveller, Shile Ogunmolasuyi, who was kidnapped on Saturday, has been confirmed dead, sparking widespread outrage and condemnation.

The kidnappers, who demanded a N30m ransom, released Shile’s mother, Mrs Yemi Ogunmolasuyi, and another woman, Caroline Taiwo, after a N10m ransom was paid.

However, Shile was not so fortunate. According to a community leader, she was repeatedly raped and left unable to walk, leading to her eventual murder.

“The kidnappers made them walk for 24 hours nonstop without food or water. Shile, who had been raped several times, became too weak to continue and was subsequently killed by the kidnappers,” the community leader revealed.

The victims were abducted near Oyimo River, along the Emure-Eporo Road, on Saturday around 5:30 PM. The kidnappers shot and killed Taiwo Oluwole, who was driving the car transporting the victims to Akure.

This is not the first time kidnappers have struck in the area. On January 29, pupils and teachers of Apostolic Faith Children School were kidnapped at the same spot. Five pupils, three female teachers, and a driver of the school bus were taken. Additionally, Mrs Atinuke, wife of a retiree, Albert Adanikin, was kidnapped on July 13 around the same area.

“Efforts are reportedly underway to locate Shile’s body and recover her remains,” said one of the family members.

Niyi Awopetu, Secretary of Emure Progressives Association, confirmed the release of the victims, stating, “Two people were released at midnight, but a girl among them was killed. I learnt the kidnappers collected N10m ransom.”

The state Police Public Relations Officer, Sunday Abutu, did not respond to calls or messages seeking his reaction to the development.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) Campaign Council for the Edo Governorship Election has urged the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to conduct compulsory drug tests on all party candidates.

The council’s Director of Media, Kassim Afegbua, made the call in a statement issued in Benin on Wednesday.

According to Afegbua, the tests are necessary to determine the candidates’ level of sanity. He alleged that some candidates are suspected to be heavy users of banned substances, including alcohol.

“We want to ensure that Edo voters make informed choices during the elections and avoid voting for a candidate who would squander the state’s resources on funding drug and alcoholic lifestyles,” he said.

Afegbua emphasized that the tests would save the Edo people from potential future embarrassment and prevent them from being deceived again.

“We will continue to pressure the NDLEA until our call is heeded,” he added.

“We have been reliably informed that some of them are alleged to be heavy consumers of banned substances, including alcohol. A test for all of them will unveil their level of sanity.” – Kassim Afegbua

“Edo State is too decent to have a governor who will bring shame to the people. Anyone who wants to govern Edo State should not be a heavy consumer of marijuana. This is a banned substance, and we expect the NDLEA to verify and conduct tests on the major candidates.” – Kassim Afegbua

“Our candidate, Sen. Monday Okpebholo is prepared to submit himself to any test any time he’s called upon. We expect similar assurances from the other candidates to ascertain their level of sanity.” – Kassim Afegbua

A 38-year-old hunter, Joseph Ajegba, has been arrested for shooting his friend after catching him in bed with his girlfriend.

The incident occurred in Ikun-Akoko, Akoko South West council area of Ondo state.

Ajegba had rented a house for his girlfriend and had visited her earlier in the day to drop off some bush meat.

He returned at night to find another man in bed with her.

The state Commissioner of Police, Mr. Abayomi Oladipo, paraded Ajegba alongside other suspected criminals at the state police headquarters in Akure.

“On the 23rd of August, 2024, at about 2300hrs, a case of attempted murder was reported to the Police…”

“I went out hunting after I have taken some bottles of beer, but I ran out of cartridges. I wanted to return to the house of my girlfriend to sleep there. When I got there, I saw the door locked. I now went to the window and I opened it and saw a co-hunter sleeping with my girlfriend. That was why I shot the gun in my hand.” – Joseph Ajegba

The police commissioner also announced the arrest of a syndicate specialising in car theft and snatching, as well as other suspects involved in various crimes.

“Among these suspects was Akinsanya Sarafa Adeniyi, a notorious receiver of stolen vehicles, known in certain circles as ‘Oba Idan.'” – Mr. Abayomi Oladipo

The commissioner reassured residents that he would do everything in his power to prevent crime and ensure their safety.

A brutal incident of mob justice occurred in Ilisan Remo, Ikenne Local Government Area of Ogun State, on Tuesday, resulting in the death of an unidentified man.

The deceased, alleged to be part of a two-man gang attempting to steal a motorcycle, was beaten to death and set ablaze by an enraged mob.

According to eyewitnesses, the situation escalated when the mob caught up with one of the suspects, while the other, dressed in an army uniform, managed to escape and sought refuge in a nearby house.

The incident led to widespread chaos, with the mob demanding the release of the fleeing suspect.

Wemmy Osude, Chairman of the Ilisan Development Association, described the scene: “One of the suspects was caught by a mob and tragically set on fire. The other suspect, who was dressed in an army uniform, sought refuge in a nearby house. A large crowd of over 200 young northerners gathered outside the house, demanding the release of the suspect.”

“The standoff persisted until a detachment of soldiers and policemen arrived at the scene to restore order. During the rescue operation, a confrontation ensued, resulting in the soldiers using tear gas to disperse the mob”.

“The soldiers displayed remarkable bravery and professionalism, using tear gas to disperse the mob and restore order to the area,” Osude added.

In a statement, Idereghi Akari, Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for the 35 Artillery Brigade, clarified that the soldier accused of being involved in the attempted theft was not a criminal. “The soldier is not a thief. The deceased person is a civilian,” Akari stated.

“The situation grew tense as over 200 young men, primarily from the northern part of the country, gathered outside the house, calling for the suspect to be handed over to them. Despite efforts to disperse the mob, they remained defiant”.

“The soldier is not a thief. The deceased person is a civilian.” – Idereghi Akari added

The Labour Party has announced the establishment of a 29-member caretaker committee, chaired by former Finance Minister Senator Nenadi Usman, to oversee the election of new leadership within 90 days.

The decision was reached during the party’s NEC/Extended Stakeholders meeting at Government House, Umuahia, Abia State.

The committee’s terms of reference include conducting ward, local government, state congresses, and national convention in accordance with the party’s constitution.

The meeting, attended by various stakeholders, including NLC, TUC, Senate, House of Representatives, and gubernatorial candidates, aimed to address the party’s existential problems and chart a way forward.

Governor Alex Otti, who convened the meeting, emphasized the need for unity in resolving internal party issues. He noted that the tenure of the National Working Committee (NWC) headed by Bar. Julius Abure had elapsed since June 10, 2024, and called on all stakeholders to join forces to resolve internal problems.

National Leader Peter Obi urged members to support the caretaker committee, stressing that the party’s survival is paramount.

He said, “All we are doing is to follow the guidelines established by law to save the party from total collapse.”

The committee comprises representatives from various interest groups, including senators, House of Representatives members, state assembly members, NLC, TUC, and gubernatorial candidates. Senator Usman assured that the committee will justify the confidence reposed in them.

Key resolutions included reaffirming confidence in Peter Obi’s leadership and urging members with legal cases against the party to withdraw them for the party’s overall interest.

The meeting was seen as a crucial step towards resolving the party’s leadership crisis and ensuring its survival. With the caretaker committee in place, the party can now focus on conducting elections and establishing a new leadership structure.

In his remarks, Governor Otti commended the stakeholders for their commitment to the party’s survival. He said, “The overall interest of all Labour Party stakeholders is the survival of the party, not necessarily the composition of the NWC, as far as it is constitutionally composed.”

The caretaker committee’s chairman, Senator Usman, thanked the National Leader and stakeholders for finding them fit for the task. She assured that the committee will work tirelessly to ensure the party’s success.

The Labour Party, being the third largest party in Nigeria, has the potential to be the brightest if things are put in the right perspective. With the caretaker committee in place, the party can now focus on rebuilding and repositioning itself for future elections.

The Labour Party, led by Julius Abure, has vehemently rejected the stakeholders meeting convened by Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, on Wednesday, labeling it “illegal” and “a waste of time and resources.”

The meeting, held in Umuahia, aimed to address the party’s leadership crisis but instead sparked further controversy.

The party’s publicity secretary, Obiora Ifoh, issued a statement disowning the meeting and its outcome, including the appointment of Nenadi Usman as chairman of a 29-man caretaker committee.

The statement emphasized that the meeting was not sanctioned by the party and therefore does not reflect its position or interests.

Abure’s leadership has challenged Otti to produce official correspondence from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) regarding objections to the party’s national convention.

They argue that there is no vacuum in the party’s leadership and that the caretaker committee is unconstitutional.

The statement further revealed that Nenadi Usman, the purported chairman of the caretaker committee, is not a registered member of the Labour Party. Her involvement in the party began during Peter Obi’s presidential campaign, raising questions about her legitimacy in this role.

The Labour Party has urged Nigerians to disregard the outcome of the meeting, deeming it a “charade” and a department of the Abia State Government House rather than a legitimate party organ.

“We are shocked to note that the so-called chairman of the caretaker committee is not a registered member of the Party. She surfaced during the Peter Obi Presidential Campaign to assist Peter Obi in his campaign”.

“The combined reading of the two provisions shows clearly that the so-called meeting in Umuahia is a charade, a waste of time and resources of Abia People”.

“We challenge Alex Otti to produce the official letter addressed to him from INEC on the subject matter. There is no vacuum in the leadership of the Party.” – Obiora Ifoh, Labour Party Publicity Secretary

National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members have been assured of an imminent increase in their monthly allowance, pending the implementation of the new minimum wage approved by the Federal Government.

This assurance was given by NYSC Director General, Brigadier General Yusha’u Ahmed, during his address to corps members at the Kebbi and Sokoto states Orientation Camps.

Brig.-Gen. Ahmed praised the corps members’ selfless contributions to the country’s socioeconomic development, emphasizing their immense value.

He encouraged them to utilize the service year to develop themselves and plan for future success.

Additionally, he advised them to take advantage of the NYSC Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development programme to acquire vocational skills, ensuring self-reliance after the service year.

“At least, learn a skill while in camp and continue with post-camp training. Acquire a skill that enables you to create jobs and employ others, rather than searching for jobs,” the DG said.

He highlighted the NYSC Management’s partnerships with organizations like the Central Bank of Nigeria, Bank of Industry, and Unity Bank, which provide loans and grants to corps members.

General Ahmed also assured that the Scheme prioritizes corps members’ safety, refraining from posting them to insecure locations, while advising them to remain security conscious.

“We have many ex-corps members across the country who are doing well in their different vocations today,” he added.

During the camp situation report presentation, Kebbi State Coordinator, Mrs Aghata Banki Okolo, reported a total of 1,195 registered corps members, comprising 1,077 for Kebbi and 118 dislodged from Zamfara State. NYSC Sokoto State Coordinator, Alhaji Yakubu Yaro Usman, informed General Ahmed of the corps members’ high sense of discipline and adherence to camp regulations.

“The corps members have exhibited a high sense of discipline and acclimatised to the camp environment,” he said.

President Bola Tinubu has emphasized Africa’s vast opportunities for investments, growth, and development, citing its vibrant population, productive economy, and natural resources.

Speaking at a bilateral meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang in Beijing, China, President Tinubu praised the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) for fostering partnership between Africa and China.

“The African spirit for FOCAC is based upon mutual respect and partnership that promotes development, happiness, peace, and stability for our people. We are in this journey together. We believe that we share common interests, which are investments and development,” President Tinubu said.

As Chairman of ECOWAS, President Tinubu expressed his delight at the strategic partnership between Africa and China, emphasizing the need for a focus on areas of collaboration that ensure mutual benefits.

“Africa is a huge opportunity for economic development. As great people, we are willing to partner for progress and development. What is most important will be the focus of FOCAC in areas on which we can collaborate to make the relationship mutually beneficial to all of us.”

President Tinubu, attending the FOCAC summit in Beijing, thanked the Chinese government for their warm reception. “I thank you for receiving us warmly. I am happy, despite the jetlag; we were well received and we are ready to move the ball.”

Chinese Premier Li Qiang assured President Tinubu of China’s commitment to working with Nigeria under the comprehensive strategic partnership established by President Xi Jinping and President Tinubu.

The Lagos State Government has announced an extension of its flexible working policy, allowing employees to continue working from home for the next three months.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu approved the extension, which was communicated in a circular issued by the state’s Head of Service, Mr Bode Agoro, on Wednesday.

The policy, initially introduced on February 28, permitted employees on grade levels 01-14 to work remotely for two days a week, while those on grade levels 15-17 could work from home for one day a week. This arrangement aimed to mitigate the impact of fuel subsidy removal on staff.

According to the circular, the policy has yielded positive results, enhancing productivity across various state government ministries, departments, and agencies. Consequently, the extension, effective from September 4, will enable employees to continue benefiting from the flexible working arrangement.

The National Economic Council (NEC) has issued a stern ultimatum to the four recalcitrant states yet to declare their position on the establishment of State Police, warning that failure to comply by September 9, 2024, will result in their acquiescence to the eventual decision.

At its meeting on Wednesday, chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima, NEC directed the laggard states to submit their stance by Monday, emphasizing that no further extensions would be granted.

Briefing journalists, Acting Governor of Oyo State Bayo Lawal revealed that 32 states have already submitted their reports, with the majority endorsing the creation of State Police to address Nigeria’s escalating security challenges.

The NEC’s directive follows a consensus reached by President Bola Tinubu and the 36 state governors in mid-February 2024 to establish State Police as a means to combat kidnapping, banditry, and other crimes.

This agreement marked a significant milestone in the quest for state police, with proponents arguing that it would enable states to respond effectively to unique security threats.

While the proposal has garnered significant support, critics have raised concerns about funding and potential political manipulation by state governors.

Some argue that state police could become tools for political oppression, while others worry about the financial burden on states. Despite these concerns, the majority of states have endorsed the creation of State Police, paving the way for constitutional amendments to facilitate its establishment.

As the deadline approaches, the four states yet to declare their stance face mounting pressure to make their position known, shaping the future of state police in Nigeria.

The NEC’s decision is expected to have far-reaching implications for the country’s security architecture, and the remaining states must now decide whether to embrace this new approach to policing or accept the eventual decision.

A Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled October 9 to deliver its verdict on the bail application of Tigran Gambaryan, a senior executive at Binance Holdings Limited, due to severe health concerns.

Justice Emeka Nwite announced the decision after hearing arguments from both the defence and prosecution teams.

Gambaryan, a key figure in the cryptocurrency exchange Binance, was charged with money laundering by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in April. His initial bail application was denied on May 17, and he reportedly collapsed in court on May 23 due to ill health.

His defence team and family have expressed grave concerns about his deteriorating health, warning that his condition may become life-threatening if he remains in Kuje prison. His wife, Yuki Gambaryan, emphasized that her husband requires urgent and specialized surgery to treat a herniated disc.

In response to the claims, the EFCC filed a counter affidavit on September 2, contesting Gambaryan’s health status. The defence team, however, maintains that his release is crucial due to his worsening condition.

In a recent development, Binance publicly appealed to the Nigerian government on September 3, urging Gambaryan’s release due to his rapidly declining health. The court’s decision on October 9 will be crucial in determining the executive’s fate.